Following a significant moment in the global climate change discussion at COP28, Australian business tycoon Andrew Forrest strongly criticized leaders in the oil and gas industry, stating that their “heads should be put on spikes.” Forrest asserted that the actions of the industry with regard to climate change have put millions of lives at risk and that they should be held accountable for the consequences of their conduct on global warming.
At COP28, where appeals for reducing the use of fossil fuels were raised, Forrest vocalized condemnation of leaders who oppose the phase-out of fossil fuels, describing them as “selfish beyond belief.” Emphasizing the adverse impact of rising temperatures on affected populations, he claimed that it was imperative for the international community to take immediate and strong action in transitioning to more sustainable energy sources.
In response to Australia’s participation in COP28, Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen indicated its support for stronger climate change mitigation efforts. He indicated his stance on an agreement to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 and to halt international aid funding for projects causing climate damage, expressing the government’s support of renewable energy and energy efficiency.
While the draft of the final COP agreement suggested a planned and equitable phase-out of fossil fuels, the specifics were to be revealed at a later stage. Climate Council Senior Researcher Dr. Wesley Morgan urged Australia to commit to an orderly and just phase-out of coal, oil, and gas, emphasizing the dire effects of coal, oil, and gas development on the environment.
In light of Australia’s role as a major fossil fuel producer, Dr. Morgan called for a shift towards clean energy. Concerns were raised about the emission of about 1.4 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent from 116 new coal and gas projects scheduled to begin production in Australia in the next decade, prompting a push for the country to move away from being a fossil fuel heavyweight and towards a cleaner energy power.
Woodside Energy became the exclusive Australian signatory to the Oil & Gas Decarbonisation Charter at COP28. CEO Meg O’Neill reiterated the company’s commitment to lowering carbon and methane emissions, consistent with the Charter’s objective of achieving net zero operations by or before 2050. O’Neill emphasized the significance of following best practices, reducing emissions, and investing in renewables and low-carbon fuels.